View source for Pilatus PC-7

{{Short description|Trainer aircraft family by Pilatus of Switzerland}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=January 2015}}
<!--This article is a part of [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Aircraft]]. Please see [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Aircraft/page content]] for recommended layout, and guidelines.-->
{{Infobox aircraft
 |name= PC-7
 |image= File:Swiss Air Force Pilatus PC-7 (cropped).jpg
 |caption= [[PC-7 Team]] of the [[Swiss Air Force]]
 |type= [[Trainer aircraft]]
 |manufacturer= [[Pilatus Aircraft]]
 |designer=
 |first_flight= '''PC-7''':<br>{{Start date and age|1966|04|12|df=y}} (prototype)<ref name=MilitaryAviation.eu/><br>{{Start date and age|1978|08|18|df=y}} (production)<ref name=MilitaryAviation.eu/><br>'''PC-7 Mk.II M''':<br>{{Start date and age|1992|09|28|df=y}}<ref name=MilitaryAviation.eu/>
|introduction  = '''PC-7''': [[1978 in aviation|1978]]<ref name=MilitaryAviation.eu/><br>'''PC-7 Mk.II M''': [[1994 in aviation|1994]]<ref name=MilitaryAviation.eu/><br>'''PC-7 MKX''': 2021
 |retired=
 |status= In service
 |primary_user= [[Mexican Air Force]]<!--Largest user; list only one user; for military aircraft, this is a nation or a service arm. Please DON'T add flag templates, as they limit horizontal space.-->
 |more_users= [[Indian Air Force]]<br>[[South African Air Force]]<br>[[Royal Malaysian Air Force]]<!--Limited to THREE (3) "more users" here (4 total users).  List users with {{plainlist}} or {{unbulleted list}}.-->
 |produced= 1966–present
 |number_built= >618
 |developed_from= [[Pilatus P-3]]
 |developed_into= [[Pilatus PC-9]]
}}

The '''Pilatus PC-7 Turbo Trainer''' is a low-wing [[Tandem#Aviation|tandem]]-seat [[Trainer aircraft|training aircraft]], designed and manufactured in [[Switzerland]] by [[Pilatus Aircraft]].  The aircraft is capable of all basic training functions, including [[aerobatics]], [[Instrument flight rules|instrument]], tactical, and [[Night fighter|night flying]].<ref name=MilitaryAviation.eu/>

The PC-7 was developed from the preceding [[Reciprocating engine|piston]]-powered [[Pilatus P-3]],<ref name=MilitaryAviation.eu>{{Cite web|url=http://www.militaryaviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm|title=Pilatus PC-7 (inc. list of users)|website=MilitaryAviation.eu|publisher=Military Aviation|date=3 October 2008|access-date=9 November 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161024090408/http://MilitaryAviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm|archive-date=24 October 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref> largely differing by the adoption of a [[turboprop]] engine, a [[bubble canopy]], and a new one-piece [[wing]].  Introduced during the 1970s, it has since developed a sizable presence of the global trainer market.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/training-bridging-the-gap-134081/|title=Training - Bridging the gap|website=Flightglobal.com|publisher=[[Flight International]]|date=10 July 2001|access-date= |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190616225801/https://www.Flightglobal.com/news/articles/training-bridging-the-gap-134081/|archive-date=16 June 2019}}</ref>  The type has been adopted by in excess of twenty [[air force]]s as their [[ab initio]] trainer, as well as multiple civilian operators.  Over one million hours have reportedly been flown by PC-7s worldwide.{{Citation needed|date=June 2019}}  In addition to training operations, some aircraft are armed and have been used for [[combat]] missions by several customers, including [[Chad]], [[Iran]], and [[Mexico]], often in violation of the relevant [[export]] agreement between the customer and the [[Swiss government]].

An improved model of the aircraft, the '''PC-7 Mk.II&nbsp;M''', was developed during the 1990s, by combining the newer [[Fuselage|airframe]] and [[avionics]] from the [[Pilatus PC-9|PC-9]] with the PC-7's smaller turbine engine.  Reportedly, in excess of 600{{Update inline|reason=Infobox says 618; source for either number?|date=May 2019}} PC-7s have been sold to various operators, the majority of which are in service.  In Pilatus' range of aircraft, the PC-7 has been succeeded by the newer [[Pilatus_PC-9|PC-9]] and [[Pilatus PC-21|PC-21]] trainers.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/elementary-training-role-for-pc-21-134689/|title=Elementary training role for PC-21?|website=Flightglobal.com|publisher=[[Flight International]]|date=14 August 2001|access-date= |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190616225803/https://www.Flightglobal.com/news/articles/elementary-training-role-for-pc-21-134689/|archive-date=16 June 2019}}</ref>

==Development==

===Origins===
Work on what would become the PC-7 commenced during the 1960s.  It was based on the earlier [[Reciprocating engine|piston]]-powered [[Pilatus P-3]], the initial [[prototype]] being produced from the existing prototype P-3, principally differing by the substitution of its [[Lycoming O-435]] engine with a [[Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6|Pratt & Whitney PT6A-20]] [[turboprop]] power-plant.<ref name=MilitaryAviation.eu/><ref name=Forecast99/>  On {{Start date and age|1966|04|12|df=y}}, the modified prototype performed its [[maiden flight]].<ref name=MilitaryAviation.eu/>  However, the PC-7 programme was abruptly shelved following an accident involving the aircraft.<ref name="svelte p112">''Air International'' September 1979, p. 112.</ref>  The termination of work was reportedly driven by a lack of market interest.<ref name=Forecast99>{{Cite web|url=https://www.forecastinternational.com/archive/disp_old_pdf.cfm?ARC_ID=1030|title=Pilatus PC-7 Turbo Trainer|website=ForecastInternational.com|publisher=[[Forecast International]]|date=September 1999}}</ref>

[[File:Pilatus PC-7, Private JP6001892.jpg|thumb|left|A Swiss-registered PC-7, fitted with additional {{Convert|240|L|abbr=on|lk=on}} fuel [[drop tank]]s under each wing, 1987.|alt=]]
During [[1973 in aviation|1973]], it was decided to restart work on the programme; factors for its revival had included the [[1973 oil crisis]], the launch of the rival [[Beechcraft T-34 Mentor#T-34C Turbo-Mentor|Beechcraft T-34C Turbo-Mentor]], and the increasing age of existing trainer aircraft.<ref name=Forecast99/>  To support the relaunch, another P-3 was obtained from the [[Swiss Air Force]].  After modifications, this aircraft first flew on {{Start date and age|1975|05|12|df=y}}.  Further extensive modifications followed later in the programme, including the adoption of a new one-piece wing complete with [[Wet wing|integral fuel tanks]], along with an altered [[Vertical stabilizer|tail fin]] and a [[bubble canopy]].{{Citation needed|date=June 2019}}  The flight test programme came to a close during Autumn 1977.<ref name=Forecast99/>

On {{Start date and age|1978|08|18|df=y}}, the first production aircraft made its first flight.<ref name=MilitaryAviation.eu/>  On 5 December of that year, Switzerland's [[Federal Office of Civil Aviation]] (FOCA) issued [[Airworthiness certificate|civil certification]] for the PC-7;<ref name=Forecast99/> immediately thereafter, initial deliveries of production aircraft commenced to customers [[Burma]] and [[Bolivia]].<ref name="Svelte p114">''Air International'' September 1979, p. 114.</ref>  Over time, sales of the PC-7 generated considerable profits, allowing the company to finance the development of further types of aircraft.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Wastnage|first=Justin|date=26 February 2002|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pilatus-ponders-additions-to-civilian-aircraft-offer-143653/|title=Pilatus ponders additions to civilian aircraft offering|website=Flightglobal.com|publisher=[[Flight International]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190616225802/https://www.Flightglobal.com/news/articles/pilatus-ponders-additions-to-civilian-aircraft-offer-143653/|archive-date=16 June 2019}}</ref>

===Further development===
The '''PC-7 Mk.II&nbsp;M''' is a development of the [[Pilatus PC-9|PC-9's]] airframe and avionics, which was powered by the PC-7's smaller turbine engine, which reportedly achieved lower operating and maintenance costs.{{Citation needed|date=June 2019}}  This variant was developed at the behest of the [[South African Air Force]] (SAAF), who later adopted the type.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Wastnage|first=Justin|date=30 April 2002|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/peace-dividend-147001/|title=Peace dividend|website=Flightglobal.com|publisher=[[Flight International]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190616225800/https://www.Flightglobal.com/news/articles/peace-dividend-147001/|archive-date=16 June 2019}}</ref>  A batch of 60 PC-7 Mk.II&nbsp;Ms were locally assembled in [[South Africa]] using [[Knock-down kit|kits]] supplied by Pilatus for the SAAF; due to political considerations, these aircraft were not fitted with the armament [[hardpoint]]s.  Deliveries to the SAAF took place between late [[1994 in aviation|1994]] and [[1996 in aviation|1996]].<ref name=Forecast99/>

In addition to Pilatus' own improvement programmes, several third-party companies have independently developed their own upgrades for customer's PC-7.  During the late 1990s, [[Israel]]i engineering firm Radom began offering a kit of new avionics for the type, which included a new mission computer, a wide-angle [[head-up display]], along with various replacement communications and weapons-delivery systems.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/radom-offers-pc-9-upgrade-for-training-and-combat-45347/|title=Radom offers PC-9 upgrade for training and combat|website=Flightglobal.com|publisher=[[Flight International]]|date=25 November 1998|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190616225800/https://www.Flightglobal.com/news/articles/radom-offers-pc-9-upgrade-for-training-and-combat-45347/|archive-date=16 June 2019}}</ref>

During July [[1998 in aviation|1998]], Pilatus announced that it has come to an agreement with [[United States|American]] company [[Western Aircraft]], for the latter to act as a [[Wholesaling|distributor]] for the PC-7 across the [[North America]]n civil aviation market.<ref name=Western1998/>  At this time, there were already five civil-registered PC-7s in operation in North America; Pilatus believed that the region could be a viable market for both remanufactured and newly built examples of the type, which would be priced between [[United States dollar|$]]1&nbsp;million and $2&nbsp;million respectively.  It was recognised that this market was limited, Western Aircraft expected to sell only a few aircraft per year.<ref name=Western1998>{{Cite web|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pilatus-appoints-western-to-market-pc-7-trainer-39757/|title=Pilatus appoints Western to market PC-7 trainer|website=Flightglobal.com|publisher=[[Flight International]]|date=22 July 1998|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190616222757/https://www.Flightglobal.com/news/articles/pilatus-appoints-western-to-market-pc-7-trainer-39757/|archive-date=16 June 2019}}</ref>

==Operational history==
===General use===
All [[export]] sales of the PC-7 are subject to [[Background check|approval]] by the [[Swiss Government]], whose authorisation is required prior to any delivery taking place.<ref name="fli98 mexrestrict"/>  The sale of [[combat]]-capable aircraft has been a controversial matter at times, and political pressure has been applied for PC-7s to be shipped without the fittings for armaments being installed.  The Swiss government has occasionally held up or outright refused to issue export licences for some nations, a move which has reportedly led to the loss of several potential sales, such as to [[South Korea]] and [[Mexico]].<ref name="fli98 mexrestrict"/>
[[File:Pilatus PC7-1050 - Flickr - Ragnhild & Neil Crawford.jpg|thumb|A PC-7 in-flight, 2012.|alt=]]

In addition to its adoption by numerous military customers, the PC-7 has also been used by private customers.  It has been certified for civil use by both the [[Federal Office of Civil Aviation]] (FOCA) and the U.S. [[Federal Aviation Administration]] (FAA) as compliant with regulations pertaining to [[general aviation]] (GA) operations in both [[Europe]] and the [[United States]].<ref name=Forecast99/>  Amongst its uses in the civilian sector has been [[Aerobatics|aerobatic display]]s.<ref name=Forecast99/>

During the 1990s, the PC-7 Mk.II&nbsp;M was adopted as the basic trainer of the [[Royal Brunei Air Force]] (RBAirF) alongside the [[BAE Systems Hawk]] jet trainer; the acquisition was seen a key to its expanded operations with [[fixed-wing aircraft]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/brunei-finalises-mpa-configuration-9616/|title=Brunei finalises MPA configuration|website=Flightglobal.com|publisher=[[Flight International]]|date=18 October 1996|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190616215326/https://www.Flightglobal.com/news/articles/brunei-finalises-mpa-configuration-9616/|archive-date=16 June 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/sultan-of-brunei-confirms-hawk-deal-109/|title=Sultan of Brunei confirms Hawk deal|website=Flightglobal.com|publisher=[[Flight International]]|date=12 March 1997|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190616215325/https://www.Flightglobal.com/news/articles/sultan-of-brunei-confirms-hawk-deal-109/|archive-date=16 June 2019}}</ref>

During June [[2011 in aviation|2011]], the [[Indian Air Force]] (IAF) selected the PC-7 Mk.II&nbsp;M as its new basic trainer, signing a contract for an initial batch of 75 aircraft, with an option for buying an additional 38 PC-7 Mk.II&nbsp;Ms; the Indian military had a total requirement of 181 trainers.<ref name="Pilatus">{{Cite press release|url=http://www.livefistdefence.com/2012/05/india-signs-deal-with-pilatus-for-75-pc.html|title=India selects Pilatus basic trainer|website=LiveFistDefence.com|publisher=Pilatus|date=24 May 2012|access-date=19 June 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150302232008/http://www.livefistdefence.com/2012/05/india-signs-deal-with-pilatus-for-75-pc.html|archive-date=2 March 2015}}</ref>  The fast-tracked decision to procure a foreign aircraft over a domestically developed alternative proposed by [[Hindustan Aeronautics Limited]] (HAL) was a controversial one; retired [[Air marshal|Air Marshal]] [[Anil Chopra (air marshal)|Anil Chopra]] argued that HAL had no viable design for the role, and that the IAF could not have reasonably afforded the delay involved in the development of such an aircraft.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Chopra|first=Anil|date=7 October 2013|url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/opinion/Stuck-at-the-basics-of-aircraft-design/article20673247.ece|title=Stuck at the basics of aircraft design|website=TheHinduBusinessLine.com|publisher=[[Hindu Business Line]]|access-date= }}</ref>  The procurement of an additional 106 trainers under the 'Make & Buy' (Indian) category was repeatedly deferred.  In [[2017 in aviation|2017]], the maintenance agreement with Pilatus lapsed, resulting in the IAF becoming solely responsible for performing these activities.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Raghuvanshi|first=Vivek|date=20 July 2017|url=https://www.defensenews.com/training-sim/2017/07/20/swiss-firm-not-extending-maintenance-deal-for-indias-pc-7-trainers/|title=Swiss Firm not expanding maintenance deal for India's PC-7 trainers|website=DefenseNews.com|access-date= }}</ref> In [[2018 in aviation|2018]], India announced that it had chosen to exercise the option of buying a batch of 38 trainers.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/iaf-gets-its-75th-pilatus-training-aircraft-pc-7-mkii/articleshow/49737603.cms|title=IAF gets its 75th Pilatus training aircraft PC-7 MkII|website=EconomicTimes.IndiaTimes.com|publisher=The Economic Times, [[India Times]]|date=14 July 2018|access-date=14 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190117073311/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/iaf-gets-its-75th-pilatus-training-aircraft-pc-7-mkii/articleshow/49737603.cms|archive-date=17 January 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> However, as of 2020, the additional orders for PC-7 aircraft from IAF were cancelled in favour of the indigenous [[HAL HTT-40]] from [[Hindustan Aeronautics Limited|Hindustan Aeronautics]], the orders for which was placed in 2022.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" />

===Combat use===
A number of PC-7s were employed by the [[Guatemalan Air Force]] in [[air strike]]s and for [[close air support]] (CAS) during the [[Guatemalan civil war]], starting in [[1982 in aviation|1982]], until the end of the conflict in [[1996 in aviation|1996]]. The PC-7s were typically deployed from the [[airfield]] in [[La Aurora International Airport|La Aurora]], being armed with a mixture of [[gun pod]]s and [[Rocket launcher#Rocket pod|rocket pods]].<ref>{{Cite web|last=Cooper|first=Tom|title=Guatemala since 1954|url=http://www.acig.info/CMS/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=91&Itemid=47|website=ACIG.org|publisher= |access-date=31 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304084034/http://www.acig.info/CMS/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=91&Itemid=47|archive-date=4 March 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>

During the lengthy [[Iran–Iraq War]] of the 1980s, amid tensions between [[Iran]] and the [[United States]], it is alleged that Iranian officials threatened to arm its PC-7 fleet with explosives and use them to launch [[suicide attack]]s against [[United States Navy]] (USN) vessels present in the [[Persian Gulf]].<ref>Razoux 2015, pp. 421–422.</ref>  Iran reportedly trained a number of suicide pilots and flew some operational missions, training was performed at [[Bushehr Airport|Bushehr Air Base]] in Iran and overseas in [[North Korea]].<ref>Bodansky 1993, p. 14.</ref><ref>Cordesman and Wagner 1991, p. 285.</ref>  In early [[1984 in aviation|1984]], an Iranian attack helicopter [[Bell AH-1 SuperCobra|AH-1J Sea Cobra]] was shot down by an Iraqi PC-7 during Operation Khyber (Iranian pilots Reza Moghadam and Mohammad Yazdi were rescued).<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.skywar.ru/IRIAF8088.html|title=Потери ВВС Ирана|trans-title=Losses of IRIAF|language=ru|website=SkyWar.ru|publisher= |date= |access-date= }}</ref>

In [[1994 in aviation|1994]], the [[Mexican Air Force]] used several armed PC-7s to attack units of the [[Zapatista Army of National Liberation]] during the [[Chiapas conflict]] in [[Mexico]].  This action was considered illegal by the Swiss government because the aeroplanes were sold for training purposes only, and as result, Switzerland issued a ban on the sale of additional units to Mexico.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Aranda|first=Jesús|date=13 November 2009|url=http://www.jornada.unam.mx/2009/11/13/index.php?section=politica&article=017n1pol|title=Ahora que la FAM pretende renovar su flota no puede adquirir aviones Pilatus C-9|trans-title= |language=es|website=Jornada.unam.mx|publisher=La Jornada|access-date=9 November 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100219130338/http://www.jornada.unam.mx/2009/11/13/index.php?section=politica&article=017n1pol|archive-date=19 February 2010}}</ref>  At the time, the Mexican Air Force was the largest single export operator of the type, and had been seeking to acquire further PC-7s, thus the sales ban was viewed as an economic blow to Pilatus.<ref name="fli98 mexrestrict">{{Cite web|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/government-veto-blocks-pc-9-sale-to-mexico-27920/|title=Government veto blocks PC-9 sale to Mexico|website=Flightglobal.com|publisher=[[Flight International]]|date=8 February 1998|access-date= |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190616220109/https://www.Flightglobal.com/news/articles/government-veto-blocks-pc-9-sale-to-mexico-27920/|archive-date=16 June 2019}}</ref>

During the mid to late 1990s, [[Executive Outcomes]], a [[Private military company|private military contractor]] led by Eeben Barlow, utilised three armed PC-7s (ex-[[Bophuthatswana]] Air Force aircraft) to provide [[close air support]] (CAS) during its operations in [[Sierra Leone]].<ref>{{Cite web|last=Barlow|first=Eeben|date= |url=http://www.galago.co.za/CAT1_025.htm|title=Executive Outcomes: against all odds|website=Galago.co.za|publisher=Galago|access-date=9 November 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071229125418/http://www.galago.co.za/CAT1_025.htm|archive-date=29 December 2007}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/gunships-for-hire-12048/|title=Gunships for hire|website=Flightglobal.com|publisher=[[Flight International]]|date=21 August 1996|access-date= |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190616215330/https://www.Flightglobal.com/news/articles/gunships-for-hire-12048/|archive-date=16 June 2019}}</ref>

During the late 2000s, the [[Chadian Air Force]] reportedly used its small fleet of PC-7s to bomb rebel positions both in their own territory and in neighbouring [[Sudan]].<ref>{{Cite web|last=Wezeman|first=Pieter D.|date=August 2009|url=http://books.sipri.org/files/misc/SIPRIBP0908.pdf|title=Arms flows to the conflict in Chad|website=SIPRI.org|publisher= |access-date=9 November 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130602110007/http://books.sipri.org/files/misc/SIPRIBP0908.pdf|archive-date=2 June 2013}}</ref>  The Swiss government summoned the [[Chad|Chad's]] ambassador to request an explanation for these reports, as these actions breached the export agreements previously struck for the sale of the type to Chad.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/chad-likely-armed-swiss-made-aircraft/6370036|title=Chad likely armed Swiss-made aircraft|website=SwissInfo.ch|publisher= |date=17 January 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190616202544/https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/chad-likely-armed-swiss-made-aircraft/6370036|archive-date=16 June 2019}}</ref>

==Variants==
*'''PC-7''' : two-seat basic trainer aircraft, powered by PT6A-25A engine rated at {{Convert|410|kW|shp|abbr=off|lk=on}}.<ref name="Svelte p115">''Air International'' September 1979, p. 115.</ref>
*'''PC-7 Mk.II M''' : a development of the PC-9's airframe and avionics, retaining the PC-7's wing to mount external stores. Powered by PT6A-25C of {{Convert|522|kW|shp|abbr=off}} rather than more powerful PT6A-62 of PC-9.<ref name="Brasseys 99 p96-7">Taylor 1999, pp. 96–97.</ref>  Developed for the [[South African Air Force]] (SAAF), and known as the 'Astra'; the aircraft is a hybrid PC-7 and PC-9, either a PC-7 'Heavy' or a PC-9 'Lite', depending on point of configuration.<ref name=MilitaryAviation.eu/>
* '''NCPC-7''' : upgraded version of the standard PC-7 with fully [[Instrument flight rules|IFR]] [[glass cockpit]] avionics, developed for the Swiss Air Force. The designation NCPC-7 has been provisionally used in the Swiss Air Force to differentiate modernized PC-7s (NC for New Cockpit) from those which were not yet done. It was removed after the improvement of the last of the 28 aircraft in 2009. Consequently, all the Turbo-Trainer took again the designation PC-7.<ref>[https://www.vtg.admin.ch/en/einsatzmittel/luft/pc-7-turbo-trainer.html#upgrades Pilatus PC-7 Turbo-Trainer], vtg.admin.ch.</ref>
* '''PC-7 WE:''' upgraded variant of the NCPC-7 for the [[Swiss Air Force]] that includes: modification of the communication system, a [[Traffic collision avoidance system|TCAS]] (traffic collision avoidance system), [[Automatic direction finder|ADF]] system extended (radiocompas), complete disassembly of the avionic and antennas to check for problems, complete disassembly and reassembly of the cables and repairs.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |date=7 November 2024 |title=Mesures d'accompagnement anticipées pour le PC-7 Maintien de la valeur sur la bonne voie |url=https://www.ruag.ch/fr/news/07-11-24/vorgezogene-begleitmassnahmen-fur-pc-7-werterhalt-auf-kurs}}</ref>
*'''PC-7 MKX''': an updated version of the PC-7 Mk.II, with new avionics, cockpit displays, and integration with the ground-based training system (GBTS). The GBTS includes computer and simulator technology, along with new tools such as [[virtual reality]] and [[mixed reality]]. PC-7 MKX was announced at the Dubai Airshow in November 2021.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pilatus-aircraft.com/en/news-events/story/pc-7-mkx|title=PC-7 MKX – The Latest Trainer From Pilatus|date=2022-03-10|access-date=2024-10-17|publisher=Pilatus}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Ground-based training technology is key to success for PC-7 MKX|first=Jon|last=Duke |date=2022-01-21|access-date=2024-10-17|url=https://skiesmag.com/news/ground-based-training-technology-key-success-pilatus-pc-7-mkx-trainer/|publisher=Skies Mag}}</ref>

==Operators==
[[File:Pilatus PC-7 operators.png|thumb|400px|right|Main countries in which the Swiss Pilatus PC-7 aircraft operates in the world.]]

===Military operators===
[[File:Pilatus PC-7 de la Fuerza Aérea Mexicana.jpg|thumb|Pilatus PC-7 of the [[Mexican Air Force]]|alt=]]
[[File:Pilatus.pc-7.fairford2006.arp.jpg|thumb|right|Pilatus PC-7 of the [[Royal Netherlands Air and Space Force]]|alt=]]
[[File:PC-7Team4.JPG|thumb|right|Pilatus NCPC-7 of the [[Swiss Air Force]] [[PC-7 Team]]|alt=]]
[[File:FAU 305.jpg|thumb|Pilatus PC-7U of the [[Uruguayan Air Force]]|alt=]]
An incomplete list of the users of the PC-7:<ref name=MilitaryAviation.eu/>

; {{flag|Angola}}
: [[National Air Force of Angola]]: 12 PC-7 ordered in 1981, with deliveries starting in 1982, 8 others delivered in 1990. 5 aircraft lost. 16 PC-7 in service in 1994, 9 in 2003, 5 in 2016.<ref>[[International Institute for Strategic Studies]]; Hackett, James (ed.). ''The Military Balance 2016''. London: Routledge. {{ISBN|1857435575}}.</ref>
; {{flag|Austria}}
: [[Austrian Air Force]]: 16 PC-7 aircraft in service as of October 2008,<ref name="MilitaryAviation.eu3">{{Cite web |date=3 October 2008 |title=Pilatus PC-7 (inc. list of users) |url=http://www.militaryaviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161024090408/http://MilitaryAviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |archive-date=24 October 2016 |access-date=9 November 2012 |website=MilitaryAviation.eu |publisher=Military Aviation}}</ref> 13 aircraft remain in service as of December 2021.<ref>{{harvnb|Hoyle ''Flight International'' 2021|p=13}}</ref>
; {{flag|Bolivia}}
: [[Bolivian Air Force]]: 24 PC-7 aircraft in service as of October 2008,<ref name="MilitaryAviation.eu4">{{Cite web |date=3 October 2008 |title=Pilatus PC-7 (inc. list of users) |url=http://www.militaryaviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161024090408/http://MilitaryAviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |archive-date=24 October 2016 |access-date=9 November 2012 |website=MilitaryAviation.eu |publisher=Military Aviation}}</ref> 2 remain in service as of December 2021.<ref>{{harvnb|Hoyle ''Flight International'' 2021|p=14}}</ref>
; {{flag|Botswana}}
: [[Botswana Defence Force Air Wing]]: seven PC-7 (delivered from 1990) aircraft in service as of October 2008,<ref name="MilitaryAviation.eu5">{{Cite web |date=3 October 2008 |title=Pilatus PC-7 (inc. list of users) |url=http://www.militaryaviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161024090408/http://MilitaryAviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |archive-date=24 October 2016 |access-date=9 November 2012 |website=MilitaryAviation.eu |publisher=Military Aviation}}</ref> to be replaced by five PC-7 Mk.II&nbsp;M in 2013;<ref>{{Cite web |date=20 April 2011 |title=Botswana Defence selects PC-7 MkII turboprop trainer aircraft worth SF 40 Mil |url=http://frontierindia.net/wa/botswana-defence-selects-pc-7-mkii-turboprop-trainer-aircraft-worth-sf-40-mil/3230/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110425022145/http://FrontierIndia.net/wa/botswana-defence-selects-pc-7-mkii-turboprop-trainer-aircraft-worth-sf-40-mil/3230/ |archive-date=25 April 2011 |access-date=9 November 2012 |website=FrontierIndia.net |publisher=Frontier India}}</ref> five PC-7 Mk.II&nbsp;M aircraft formally accepted into service on 8 February 2013, removing six original PC-7s from service.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hoyle |first=Craig |date=11 February 2013 |title=Botswana introduces new PC-7 MkII trainers |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/botswana-introduces-new-pc-7-mkii-trainers-382168/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130214003208/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/botswana-introduces-new-pc-7-mkii-trainers-382168/ |archive-date=14 February 2013 |access-date=11 February 2013 |website=Flightglobal.com |publisher=[[Flight International]], Reed Elsevier}}</ref>
; {{flag|Brunei}}
: [[Royal Brunei Air Force]]: four PC-7 Mk.II&nbsp;M aircraft in service as of October 2008,<ref name="MilitaryAviation.eu6">{{Cite web |date=3 October 2008 |title=Pilatus PC-7 (inc. list of users) |url=http://www.militaryaviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161024090408/http://MilitaryAviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |archive-date=24 October 2016 |access-date=9 November 2012 |website=MilitaryAviation.eu |publisher=Military Aviation}}</ref> currently operated by No. 73 Squadron, and are also used by the RBAirF [[Alap-Alap Formation]] [[aerobatic]] display team.
; {{flag|Chad}}
: [[Chad Air Force]]: two PC-7<ref name="MilitaryAviation.eu7">{{Cite web |date=3 October 2008 |title=Pilatus PC-7 (inc. list of users) |url=http://www.militaryaviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161024090408/http://MilitaryAviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |archive-date=24 October 2016 |access-date=9 November 2012 |website=MilitaryAviation.eu |publisher=Military Aviation}}</ref> aircraft remaining in service as of December 2021.<ref>{{harvnb|Hoyle ''Flight International'' 2021|p=15}}</ref>
; {{flag|Chile}}
: [[Chilean Navy]]: ten PC-7 aircraft in service as of October 2008,<ref name="MilitaryAviation.eu8">{{Cite web |date=3 October 2008 |title=Pilatus PC-7 (inc. list of users) |url=http://www.militaryaviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161024090408/http://MilitaryAviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |archive-date=24 October 2016 |access-date=9 November 2012 |website=MilitaryAviation.eu |publisher=Military Aviation}}</ref> seven aircraft remain in service as of December 2021.<ref>{{harvnb|Hoyle ''Flight International'' 2021|p=15}}</ref>
; {{flag|France}}
: [[Direction générale de l'armement]]: six PC-7 aircraft in service as of October 2008.<ref name="MilitaryAviation.eu9">{{Cite web |date=3 October 2008 |title=Pilatus PC-7 (inc. list of users) |url=http://www.militaryaviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161024090408/http://MilitaryAviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |archive-date=24 October 2016 |access-date=9 November 2012 |website=MilitaryAviation.eu |publisher=Military Aviation}}</ref>
; {{flag|Guatemala}}
: [[Guatemalan Air Force]]: 12 PC-7 aircraft in service as of October 2008,<ref name="MilitaryAviation.eu10">{{Cite web |date=3 October 2008 |title=Pilatus PC-7 (inc. list of users) |url=http://www.militaryaviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161024090408/http://MilitaryAviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |archive-date=24 October 2016 |access-date=9 November 2012 |website=MilitaryAviation.eu |publisher=Military Aviation}}</ref> one aircraft remaining in service as of December 2021.<ref>{{harvnb|Hoyle ''Flight International'' 2021|p=19}}</ref>
; {{flag|India}}
: [[Indian Air Force]]: 74 PC-7 Mk.II&nbsp;M,<ref>{{Cite news |date=14 July 2018 |orig-date=10 November 2015 |title=IAF gets its 75th Pilatus training aircraft PC-7 MkII |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/iaf-gets-its-75th-pilatus-training-aircraft-pc-7-mkii/articleshow/49737603.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151113014616/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/iaf-gets-its-75th-pilatus-training-aircraft-pc-7-mkii/articleshow/49737603.cms |archive-date=13 November 2015 |access-date=7 August 2023 |website=EconomicTimes.IndiaTimes.com |publisher=[[The Economic Times]], Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd. |location=[[New Delhi]], India}}</ref> Additional order for 38 units cancelled.<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |date=19 May 2020 |title=IAF shelves 3 major acquisition projects for Make in India, other reasons/ |url=https://www.aninews.in/news/national/general-news/iaf-shelves-3-major-acquisition-projects-for-make-in-india-other-reasons20200519144203/ |access-date=23 May 2020 |website=[[Asian News International]] |publisher= |location=[[New Delhi]], India}}</ref> Orders placed for [[HAL HTT-40]].<ref name=":1">{{Cite news |last=Peri |first=Dinakar |date=20 October 2022 |title=IAF-HAL conclude ₹6,800 crore contract for 70 HTT-40 trainer aircraft |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/iaf-hal-conclude-6800-crore-contract-for-70-htt-40-trainer-aircraft/article66037061.ece |access-date=21 October 2022 |website=[[The Hindu]] |publisher= |location=[[Gandhinagar]], India |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> Two PC-7s have been lost in crashes in December 2023<ref>{{cite web |date=2023-12-04 |title=wo pilots killed in an Indian Air Force trainer aircraft crash in Telangana’s Medak |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/two-pilots-killed-in-an-indian-air-force-trainer-aircraft-crash-in-telanganas-medak/article67603623.ece |access-date=2023-12-05}}</ref> and November 2025.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2025-11-14 |title=IAF training aircraft crashes near Chennai; pilot ejects safely |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/tamil-nadu-shocker-iaf-training-aircraft-crashes-near-tiruporur-pilot-ejects-safely/articleshow/125324644.cms |access-date=2025-11-17 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-11-14 |title=Indian Air Force aircraft crashes in Chennai, pilot ejects safely |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/indian-air-force-aircraft-crashes-in-chennai-pilot-ejects-safely-101763115470356.html |access-date=2025-11-17 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en}}</ref>
; {{flag|Iran}}
: [[Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force]]: 35 PC-7 aircraft in service as of October 2008,<ref name="MilitaryAviation.eu11">{{Cite web |date=3 October 2008 |title=Pilatus PC-7 (inc. list of users) |url=http://www.militaryaviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161024090408/http://MilitaryAviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |archive-date=24 October 2016 |access-date=9 November 2012 |website=MilitaryAviation.eu |publisher=Military Aviation}}</ref> 34 aircraft remain in service as of December 2021.<ref>{{harvnb|Hoyle ''Flight International'' 2021|p=21}}</ref>
; {{flag|Malaysia}}
: [[Royal Malaysian Air Force]]: 30 PC-7 Turbo Trainers out of a first order of 44 (delivered from 1983), 45 PC-7 aircraft in service as of October 2008;<ref name="MilitaryAviation.eu12">{{Cite web |date=3 October 2008 |title=Pilatus PC-7 (inc. list of users) |url=http://www.militaryaviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161024090408/http://MilitaryAviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |archive-date=24 October 2016 |access-date=9 November 2012 |website=MilitaryAviation.eu |publisher=Military Aviation}}</ref> 17 PC-7 Mk.II&nbsp;M out of a second order of 19 (delivered in two batches, nine from 2001 and ten from 2007); total of 47 currently in service; the type is also used by the ''Taming Sari'' [[aerobatic]] display team.
; {{flag|Mexico}}
: [[Mexican Air Force]]: 88 PC-7 aircraft (first delivery May 1979) in service as of October 2008.<ref name="MilitaryAviation.eu13">{{Cite web |date=3 October 2008 |title=Pilatus PC-7 (inc. list of users) |url=http://www.militaryaviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161024090408/http://MilitaryAviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |archive-date=24 October 2016 |access-date=9 November 2012 |website=MilitaryAviation.eu |publisher=Military Aviation}}</ref><ref name="JAWA03 p4542">Jackson 2003, p. 454.</ref>
; {{flag|Myanmar}}
: [[Myanmar Air Force]]: first customer of the PC-7, deliveries in early 1979, 17 PC-7 aircraft in service as of October 2008,<ref name="MilitaryAviation.eu14">{{Cite web |date=3 October 2008 |title=Pilatus PC-7 (inc. list of users) |url=http://www.militaryaviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161024090408/http://MilitaryAviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |archive-date=24 October 2016 |access-date=9 November 2012 |website=MilitaryAviation.eu |publisher=Military Aviation}}</ref> 16 aircraft remain in service as of December 2021.<ref>{{harvnb|Hoyle ''Flight International'' 2021|p=25}}</ref>
; {{flag|Netherlands}}
: [[Royal Netherlands Air and Space Force]]: 13 PC-7 (first generation) aircraft in service, that will be replaced by 8 PC-7 MKX that were selected in October 2024, and with 2 simulators.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last=Mukherjee |first=Upasana |date=2024-10-16 |title=Netherlands MoD selects Pilatus for eight PC-7 MkX aircraft |url=https://www.airforce-technology.com/news/dutch-mod-selects-pilatus/ |access-date=2024-10-16 |website=Airforce Technology |language=en-US}}</ref>
; {{flag|South Africa}}
: [[South African Air Force]]: first customer of the PC-7 Mk.II&nbsp;M delivered 30 November 1994, 60 PC-7 Mk.II&nbsp;M aircraft in service as of October 2008,<ref name="MilitaryAviation.eu15">{{Cite web |date=3 October 2008 |title=Pilatus PC-7 (inc. list of users) |url=http://www.militaryaviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161024090408/http://MilitaryAviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |archive-date=24 October 2016 |access-date=9 November 2012 |website=MilitaryAviation.eu |publisher=Military Aviation}}</ref> the type is also used by the [[Silver Falcons]] [[aerobatic]] display team.
; {{flag|Switzerland}}
: [[Swiss Air Force]]: 40 PC-7 aircraft delivered from 1979 that remained in service as of October 2008<ref name="MilitaryAviation.eu16">{{Cite web |date=3 October 2008 |title=Pilatus PC-7 (inc. list of users) |url=http://www.militaryaviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161024090408/http://MilitaryAviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |archive-date=24 October 2016 |access-date=9 November 2012 |website=MilitaryAviation.eu |publisher=Military Aviation}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | title=Archived copy | url=https://www.pilatus-aircraft.com/data/document/Pilatus_Chronik_2023-EN_66d6f9c8941bf.pdf | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240912163411/https://pilatus-aircraft.com/data/document/Pilatus_Chronik_2023-EN_66d6f9c8941bf.pdf | archive-date=2024-09-12}}</ref> Nine have been used by the [[aerobatic]] display team [[PC-7 Team]] since 1989. 
: 28 PC-7 upgraded with new cockpit in service in 2011 (standard NCPC).<ref name="LW.admin.ch2">{{Cite web |date= |title=Pilatus NCPC-7 (PC-7 Turbo-Trainer) |url=http://www.lw.admin.ch/internet/luftwaffe/en/home/dokumentation/assets/aircraft/pc7.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120222065406/http://www.lw.admin.ch/internet/luftwaffe/en/home/dokumentation/assets/aircraft/pc7.html |archive-date=22 February 2012 |access-date=9 November 2012 |website=LW.admin.ch |publisher=[[Swiss Air Force]]; Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport}}</ref>  As of 2024, 27 remain in service. RUAG and Pilatus have been tasked to modernise the fleet to the standard PC-7 WE (valuation programme). The intention is to keep it in service until 2040.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-11-07 |title=RUAG and Pilatus partner to extend service life of Swiss Air Force’s PC-7 trainer fleet |url=https://defence-industry.eu/ruag-and-pilatus-partner-to-extend-service-life-of-swiss-air-forces-pc-7-trainer-fleet/ |access-date=2025-01-10 |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":3" />
; {{flag|United Arab Emirates}}
: [[United Arab Emirates Air Force]]: 31 PC-7 aircraft in service as of October 2008,<ref name="MilitaryAviation.eu17">{{Cite web |date=3 October 2008 |title=Pilatus PC-7 (inc. list of users) |url=http://www.militaryaviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161024090408/http://MilitaryAviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |archive-date=24 October 2016 |access-date=9 November 2012 |website=MilitaryAviation.eu |publisher=Military Aviation}}</ref> 31 aircraft remain in service as of December 2021.<ref>{{harvnb|Hoyle ''Flight International'' 2021|p=32}}</ref>
; {{flag|Uruguay}}
: [[Uruguayan Air Force]]: 6 PC-7 aircraft in service as of October 2008,<ref name="MilitaryAviation.eu18">{{Cite web |date=3 October 2008 |title=Pilatus PC-7 (inc. list of users) |url=http://www.militaryaviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161024090408/http://MilitaryAviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |archive-date=24 October 2016 |access-date=9 November 2012 |website=MilitaryAviation.eu |publisher=Military Aviation}}</ref> 5 aircraft remain in service as of December 2021.<ref>{{harvnb|Hoyle ''Flight International'' 2021|p=34}}</ref>

=== Aircraft ordered ===

;{{flag|Belgium}}
: [[Belgian Air Force]]: 18 PC-7 MKX were selected in November 2025.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Orban |first=André |date=2025-11-07 |title= Belgium approves purchase of new Pilatus PC-7 MKX training aircraft |url=https://www.aviation24.be/military-aircraft/belgian-air-component/belgium-approves-purchase-of-new-pilatus-pc-7-mkx-training-aircraft/ |access-date=2025-11-07 |website=Aviation24 |language=nl}}</ref>
;{{flag|France}}
: [[French Air and Space Force|French Air and Space force]] and [[French Naval Aviation]]: 22 PC-7 MKX ordered as primary trainer with 12 simulators developed by Exail in December 2024. It will  replace the [[Cirrus SR20]] and the [[Grob G 120|Grob G120A]]. Pilatus won the programme ''"Mentor 2"''. Babcock France will provide the training for the French military.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Lagneau |first=Laurent |date=2025-01-10 |title=Le Pilatus PC-7 a été retenu pour assurer la formation initiale des futurs pilotes de l'armée de l'Air et de la Marine |url=https://www.opex360.com/2025/01/10/le-pilatus-pc-7-a-ete-retenu-pour-assurer-la-formation-initiale-des-futurs-pilotes-de-larmee-de-lair-et-de-la-marine/?unapproved=384043&moderation-hash=5a4bd4b04111fa9fa7ac6d0e3ea8f0aa#comment-384043 |access-date=2025-01-10 |website=Zone Militaire |language=fr-FR}}</ref>
;{{flag|Netherlands}}
: [[Royal Netherlands Air and Space Force]]: 8 PC-7 MKX were selected in October 2024, with 2 simulators, the contract was signed in February 2025.<ref name=":2" /><ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2025-02-07 |title=L'Armée de l'air Royale Néerlandaise signe pour le PC-7 MKX ! |url=https://www.avianews.ch/post/l-arm%C3%A9e-de-l-air-royale-n%C3%A9erlandaise-signe-pour-le-pc-7-mkx |access-date=2025-02-08 |website=Avia news |language=fr}}</ref>

=== Civilian operators ===
At least seven PC-7 aircraft are in service by various unspecified civilian operators as of October 2008.<ref name="MilitaryAviation.eu19">{{Cite web |date=3 October 2008 |title=Pilatus PC-7 (inc. list of users) |url=http://www.militaryaviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161024090408/http://MilitaryAviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |archive-date=24 October 2016 |access-date=9 November 2012 |website=MilitaryAviation.eu |publisher=Military Aviation}}</ref>

=== Former military operators ===

; {{flag|Bophuthatswana}}
: [[Bophuthatswana Air Force]]: two PC-7 (delivered from 1989), later transferred to [[South Africa Air Force]]<ref name="MilitaryAviation.eu20">{{Cite web |date=3 October 2008 |title=Pilatus PC-7 (inc. list of users) |url=http://www.militaryaviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161024090408/http://MilitaryAviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |archive-date=24 October 2016 |access-date=9 November 2012 |website=MilitaryAviation.eu |publisher=Military Aviation}}</ref> and subsequently served in the [[Sierra Leone]] civil war and Chad){{Citation needed|date=May 2021}}
; {{flag|Iraq}}
: [[Iraq Air Force]]: 52 PC-7 (delivered from 1980)<ref name="MilitaryAviation.eu21">{{Cite web |date=3 October 2008 |title=Pilatus PC-7 (inc. list of users) |url=http://www.militaryaviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161024090408/http://MilitaryAviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |archive-date=24 October 2016 |access-date=9 November 2012 |website=MilitaryAviation.eu |publisher=Military Aviation}}</ref>
; {{flag|Nigeria}}
: [[Nigerian Air Force]] had two aircraft in service.
; {{flag|Suriname}}
: [[Suriname Air Force]] had two PC-7 aircraft in service as of October 1986 of three ordered (one transferred to civilian operations).<ref name="MilitaryAviation.eu22">{{Cite web |date=3 October 2008 |title=Pilatus PC-7 (inc. list of users) |url=http://www.militaryaviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161024090408/http://MilitaryAviation.eu/trainer/Pilatus/PC-7.htm |archive-date=24 October 2016 |access-date=9 November 2012 |website=MilitaryAviation.eu |publisher=Military Aviation}}</ref>

=== Former civil operators ===

; {{flag|Switzerland}}
: [[Swissair]]

==Accidents and incidents==
[[File:SilverFalcons5.jpg|thumb|A [[Silver Falcons]] PC-7 Mk.II&nbsp;M, similar to the one that was in the [[South African Air Force]] incidents.|alt=]]
*The [[South African Air Force]] (SAAF) grounded their fleet of PC-7 Mk.II&nbsp;M aircraft after a crash on 15 January 2008.  The aircraft went down shortly after takeoff from [[AFB Overberg|Overberg Air Force Base]] in the [[Western Cape Province]].  SAAF Lieutenant-Colonel Chris Meiring, 58, died shortly after the crash. The aircraft was flying to [[AFB Langebaanweg|Langebaanweg Air Force Base]] for maintenance but shortly after takeoff it rolled and flew into the ground.  The cause is believed{{By whom|date=May 2014}} to have been a structural problem.
*In March 2010, a pilot was killed when his [[Royal Malaysian Air Force]] (RMAF) aircraft exploded and caught fire in midair during a solo airshow.  This is the fifth accident involving Royal Malaysian Air Force PC-7 aircraft.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.bharian.com.my/bharian/articles/KarnivalkonvokesyenUUMbertukartragedi/Article/|title=Nasional Karnival konvokesyen UUM bertukar tragedi|website=Bharian.com.my|publisher=Bharian|date=26 March 2010|access-date=9 November 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100328161509/http://www.bharian.com.my/bharian/articles/KarnivalkonvokesyenUUMbertukartragedi/Article|archive-date=28 March 2010}}</ref>
*In June 2010, two Mexican pilots were killed when their [[Mexican Air Force]] PC-7 crashed after taking off from Pie de la Cuesta, a district in the resort city of [[Acapulco]], Mexico.  The PC-7 crashed into the sea near Acapulco.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.debate.com.mx/eldebate/noticias/default.asp?IdArt=10265985&IdCat=6087|title=Cae avión militar en Acapulco|language=es|website=debate.com.mx|publisher=El Debate|date=|access-date=6 May 2013|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130703032951/http://www.debate.com.mx/eldebate/noticias/default.asp?IdArt=10265985&IdCat=6087|archive-date=3 July 2013}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.laht.com/article.asp?ArticleId=370468&CategoryId=14091|title=Two die in military plane crash in Mexico|website=LAHT.com|publisher=[[Latin American Herald Tribune]]|date= |access-date=6 May 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304060347/http://www.laht.com/article.asp?ArticleId=370468&CategoryId=14091|archive-date=4 March 2016}}</ref>
*On 20 October 2011, two PC-7s of the Botswana Defence Force were involved in a mid-air collision over Letlhakeng {{Convert|100|km|abbr=off|lk=on}} west of Gaborone.  Two of the four aircrew involved were killed in the accident.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.mmegi.bw/index.php?sid=1&aid=890&dir=2011/October/Friday21|title=Two BDF planes collide, killing two pilots|website=Mmegi.bw|publisher=Mmegi online|date=|access-date=9 November 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181007081447/http://www.mmegi.bw/index.php?sid=1&aid=890&dir=2011%2FOctober%2FFriday21|archive-date=7 October 2018}}</ref>
*On 12 September 2017, a pilot was killed when his [[Swiss Air Force]] PC-7 crashed at the [[Schreckhorn]] in Canton Bern on its way from [[Payerne Air Base|Base aérienne Payerne]] to [[Locarno Airport|Base aérienne Locarno]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.20min.ch/schweiz/news/story/Leiche-des-PC-7-Piloten-gefunden-23696323|title=PC-7 crash on Schreckhorn|website=[[20 Minuten]]|publisher= |date= |access-date=13 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170913091644/http://www.20min.ch/schweiz/news/story/Leiche-des-PC-7-Piloten-gefunden-23696323|archive-date=13 September 2017|url-status=live}}</ref>
*On 4 December 2023, a PC-7 of the Indian Air Force crashed in [[Medak]], [[Telangana]], India. Both pilots died in the crash. The aircraft had taken off on a training flight from Hyderabad. The crash is currently under investigation.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/two-pilots-killed-in-an-indian-air-force-trainer-aircraft-crash-in-telanganas-medak/article67603623.ece|title=wo pilots killed in an Indian Air Force trainer aircraft crash in Telangana’s Medak|date=2023-12-04|access-date=2023-12-05}}</ref>  
*On 14th November 2025, another PC-7 of the Indian Air Forced crashed near [[Tambaram Air Force Station|Tambaram]], during a training mission. The sole pilot ejected safely.<ref>https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/indian-air-force-aircraft-crashes-near-chennai-pilot-safe-9635959/amp/1</ref>  

==Specifications (PC-7)==
[[File:Pilatus PC-7 3 vues.gif|thumb|Pilatus PC-7|alt=]]
{{Aircraft specs
|ref          = <ref name=MilitaryAviation.eu/><ref name="Janes 93 p359-60">Lambert 1993, pp. 359–360.</ref>
|prime units? = met
|crew         = two, pilot instructor and student pilot
|capacity     = two
|length m     = 9.78
|span m       = 10.40
|height m     = 3.21
|wing area sqm= 16.60
|aspect ratio = 6.5:1
|airfoil      = NACA 64<sub>2</sub>A-415 at root, 64<sub>1</sub>A-612 at tip
|fuel capacity= {{Convert|474|L|impgal USgal|abbr=on}} usable internal fuel,<br>2x {{Convert|240|L|impgal USgal|abbr=on}} external fuel [[drop tank]]s
|empty weight kg= 1330
|max takeoff weight kg= 2700
|more general =<br>'''• Max landing weight:''' 2,565 kg
<!--Powerplant-->
|eng1 number= 1
|eng1 name  = [[Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A]]-25A
|eng1 type  = [[turboprop]]
|eng1 kw    = 410
|power original= (derated from {{Convert|485|kW|shp|abbr=on}})
|prop blade number=3<!-- propeller aircraft -->
|prop name  = Hartzell HC-B3TN-2 / T10173C-8 [[constant-speed propeller]]
|prop dia m = 2.36
<!--Performance-->
|max speed kmh    = 412
|max speed note   = (max cruise at {{Convert|6095|m|abbr=on}})
|cruise speed kmh = 316
|cruise speed note= (econ. cruise at {{Convert|6095|m|abbr=on}})
|stall speed kmh  = 119
|stall speed note = (flaps and gear down, power off)
|never exceed speed kmh= 500
|never exceed speed note= [[Equivalent airspeed|EAS]]
|range km         = 1200
|ferry range km   = 2630
|range note       = standard range without external drop tanks, ferry range with external drop tanks, (cruise power, at {{Convert|5000|m|abbr=on}} - 20 min reserves)
|endurance        = 4 hr 22 min 
|ceiling m        = 10060
|ceiling note     = 
|g limits         = -3 / +6
|climb rate ms    = 
|climb rate ftmin = 2150
|climb rate note  = climb to 5,000 m in 9 min 0 sec
|more performance =<br>take-off run 780 m at max take-off weight, landing run 505 m at max landing weight
<!--Armament-->
|guns              = 
|bombs             = 
|rockets           = 
|missiles          = 
|hardpoints        = 6 × underwing hardpoints for bombs and rockets
|hardpoint capacity= 1,040 kg (2,294 lb)<ref name="Svelte p113">''Air International'' September 1979, p. 113.</ref>
|hardpoint rockets = 
|hardpoint missiles= 
|hardpoint bombs   = 
|hardpoint other   = 
|avionics          = 
}}

==See also==
{{Portal|Aviation|Switzerland}}
{{Aircontent
|see also=
|related=
* [[Pilatus P-3]]
* [[Pilatus PC-9]]
|similar aircraft=
* [[Atlas ACE]]
* [[Beechcraft T-34 Mentor]]
* [[Embraer EMB 312 Tucano]]
* [[Grob G 120TP]]
* [[PZL-130 Orlik]]
* [[Socata TB 30 Epsilon]]
|lists=
}}

==References==
===Citations===
{{Reflist}}

===Bibliography===
* {{cite book |last=Bodansky |first=Yossef |title=Target America & the West: Terrorism Today |publisher=SP Books |year=1993 |isbn=1-5617-1269-8}}
* {{cite book |last1=Cordesman |first1=Anthony H. |last2=Wagner |first2=Abraham R. |title=The Lessons of Modern War: The Iran-Iraq War |publisher=Westview Press |year=1991 |isbn=0-8133-1330-9}}
* {{cite book |last1=Fontanellaz |first1=Adrien |last2=Cooper |first2=Tom |last3=Matos |first3=Jose Augusto |title=War of Intervention in Angola, Volume 3: Angolan and Cuban Air Forces, 1975–1985 |publisher=Helion & Company Publishing |location=Warwick, UK |year=2020 |isbn=978-1-913118-61-7}}
* {{cite journal |last=Genève |first=Alain |title=50 ans d'aviation au pied Mont Pilatus (3): Les Pilatus PC-7 et PC-9 |trans-title=50 Years at the Foot of Mount Pilatus (3): The Pilatus PC-7 and PC-9 |journal=Le Fana de l'Aviation |issue=245 |date=April 1990 |pages=16–19 |language=fr |issn=0757-4169}}
* {{cite news |last=Hoyle |first=Craig |title=World Air Forces 2022 |work=Flight International |year=2021 |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/download?ac=83735 |access-date=12 December 2021 |ref={{harvid|Hoyle ''Flight International'' 2021}}}}
* {{cite book |last=Jackson |first=Paul |title=Jane's All The World's Aircraft 2003–2004 |publisher=Jane's Information Group |location=Coulsdon, UK |year=2003 |isbn=0-7106-2537-5}}
* {{cite book |last=Lambert |first=Mark |title=Jane's All The World's Aircraft 1993–94 |publisher=Jane's Data Division |location=Coulsdon, UK |year=1993 |isbn=0-7106-1066-1}}
* {{cite book |last=Razoux |first=Pierre |title=The Iran-Iraq War |publisher=Harvard University Press |year=2015 |isbn=0-6740-8863-8 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=rp5XCwAAQBAJ}}
* {{cite magazine |title=The Svelte Switzer ... Pilatus' Turbo Trainer |magazine=Air International |volume=16 |issue=3 |date=September 1979 |pages=111–118}}

==External links==
{{Commons category|Pilatus PC-7}}
*{{Official website|http://www.pilatus-aircraft.com/#45|PC-7 Mk.II M official page}}

{{Pilatus aircraft}}
{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Pilatus Pc-7}}
[[Category:Pilatus aircraft|PC-07]]
[[Category:1960s Swiss military trainer aircraft]]
[[Category:Single-engined tractor aircraft]]
[[Category:Low-wing aircraft]]
[[Category:Single-engined turboprop aircraft]]
[[Category:Aircraft first flown in 1966]]
[[Category:Aircraft with retractable tricycle landing gear]]